And it was a rematch for Sainte Mesme! Following a thrilling championship match, Robert Strom’s foursome defeated the previously unbeaten and reigning champions, Kazak, 11–9, and claimed the 129° Open de Paris, following the final that took place on Sunday June 25, in the lavish and sophisticated Polo de Paris, also known as Bagatelle, set only 10 minutes from the City of Lights in the heart of the Bois de Boulogne in the banks of the River Seine.
And it was indeed a double rematch for Sainte Mesme. In 2022, they lost the final against Sébastien Aguettant’s lineup and this year, Kazak beat them 8-7 in the league stage. In addition, the 2023 final of the 129° Open de Paris was very special for Clemente Zavaleta, who wasn’t unable to participate in 2022 due to a serious accident he had while playing in Palm Beach. After a very successful recovery, Corchito had a triumphant return to the polo grounds in Paris, and won the most prestigious tournament of the Parisian Triple Crown.
With regards to the final, the match had a very leveled start, that saw a 2-all at the end of the first chukka. Sainte Mesme took the lead in the second chukka, and widened the gap from the third chukka onwards, that allowed them to reach a five goal advantage (9-4) with only one chukka remaining. The deal was said and done in the last chukka, when Sainte Mesme won 11-8 to claim the much coveted title. It is worth noting Robert Strom’s remarkable performance; he produced no less than six goals.
Thel 129° Open de París saw five teams up to 12 goals, partake.
129° OPEN DE PARIS – FINAL – SUNDAY JUNE 25
SAINTE MESME 11-8 KAZAK
SAINTE MESME: Robert Ström 5 (6 goals), Clemente Zavaleta 5 (1), Elouan Badarello 0 (2), Sawai Padmanabh Singh 2 (2). Total: 12.
KAZAK: Sébastien Aguettant 0 (1 goal), Patrick Paillol 5 (2), Roberto Iturrioz 2, Santiago Irastorza 5 (5) Total: 12.
Score Saine Mesme: 2-2, 4-2, 7-2, 9-4, 11-8.
BPP: Open Coquito,r idden by Santiago Irastorza.
Umpires: Martín Aguerre & Matias Baibiene.
IMAGES
129° Open de Paris, Final – Sainte Mesme vs. Kazak